News for 'us secretary of state'

Kerala CM row: Satheesan meets sulking Chennithala; UDF begins govt talks

Kerala CM row: Satheesan meets sulking Chennithala; UDF begins govt talks

Rediff.com5 days ago

Kerala's Chief Minister-designate V D Satheesan visited senior Congress leader Ramesh Chennithala, emphasising their close relationship and seeking blessings for his new role.

NDA govt in Assam to be sworn-in on May 12

NDA govt in Assam to be sworn-in on May 12

Rediff.com7 May 2026

The newly elected BJP-led NDA government in Assam will be sworn in on May 12, with Prime Minister Narendra Modi and other dignitaries expected to attend. Preparations are underway to ensure a smooth and secure ceremony.

Trump, Xi hold talks in the 'biggest summit ever'

Trump, Xi hold talks in the 'biggest summit ever'

Rediff.com7 days ago

US President Donald Trump and Chinese President Xi Jinping met in Beijing to discuss a range of issues, including trade frictions and the war in Iran.

Kingmaker? Congress claims Vijay seeks support to form govt in TN

Kingmaker? Congress claims Vijay seeks support to form govt in TN

Rediff.com5 May 2026

The Congress party is considering supporting TVK in forming a government in Tamil Nadu, following a request from TVK chief Vijay. The party leadership has directed the Tamil Nadu unit to make a final decision, keeping in mind the state's sentiments and commitment to a secular government.

TMC Accuses Election Commission Of Partisan Conduct In Bengal Polls

TMC Accuses Election Commission Of Partisan Conduct In Bengal Polls

Rediff.com9 May 2026

TMC leader Abhishek Banerjee has questioned the credibility of the West Bengal assembly polls, accusing the Election Commission of partisan conduct and alleging large-scale irregularities during the elections.

TMC Leaders Discuss Strategy After Bengal Election Results

TMC Leaders Discuss Strategy After Bengal Election Results

Rediff.com6 May 2026

Senior TMC leaders and newly-elected MLAs met at Mamata Banerjee's residence to discuss strategy and allocation of responsibilities following the party's performance in the West Bengal assembly elections.

Family Demands Compensation For Retired Brigadier Killed In Crossfire

Family Demands Compensation For Retired Brigadier Killed In Crossfire

Rediff.com6 May 2026

The family of retired Brigadier Mukesh Joshi, who died in a crossfire in Rajpur, Dehradun, is seeking Rs 1 crore compensation from the Uttarakhand government, citing his distinguished military service and the state's responsibility to protect its citizens.

Mulayam Singh Yadav's Son Prateek Dies At 38

Mulayam Singh Yadav's Son Prateek Dies At 38

Rediff.com7 days ago

Prateek Yadav, the younger son of Samajwadi Party founder Mulayam Singh Yadav, has died at the age of 38 due to cardiac-lung complications. The news has prompted condolences from across the political spectrum in Uttar Pradesh.

V D Satheesan: Opposition Firebrand to Kerala CM

V D Satheesan: Opposition Firebrand to Kerala CM

Rediff.com7 days ago

V D Satheesan, a 61-year-old lawyer-turned-politician, has emerged as a prominent figure in Kerala politics, known for his aggressive opposition to the Left government and his role in revitalising the Congress party. His journey from student politics to a key leadership position highlights his strategic acumen and dedication to addressing local issues.

Bihar Official Killed, Chairman Hurt In Bhagalpur Shooting

Bihar Official Killed, Chairman Hurt In Bhagalpur Shooting

Rediff.com28 Apr 2026

An official of the Sultanganj Nagar Parishad in Bihar's Bhagalpur was killed, while its chairman got critically injured on Tuesday when unidentified miscreants barged into the latter's chamber and allegedly opened fire, police said.

VCK keeps TVK guessing as wait for TN govt formation continues

VCK keeps TVK guessing as wait for TN govt formation continues

Rediff.com9 May 2026

The VCK party, led by Thol Thirumavalavan, will announce its official position on supporting Vijay's TVK in forming the government. The decision follows discussions regarding power-sharing and key positions within the new government.

AAP Accuses BJP Of Plotting Punjab Blasts, BJP Denies

AAP Accuses BJP Of Plotting Punjab Blasts, BJP Denies

Rediff.com7 May 2026

Aam Aadmi Party MP Sanjay Singh has accused the BJP of orchestrating bomb blasts in Amritsar and Jalandhar to destabilise Punjab ahead of elections, a claim strongly refuted by the BJP.

Inflation, weak rupee drag Indian markets lower; fuel price hike adds to concerns

Inflation, weak rupee drag Indian markets lower; fuel price hike adds to concerns

Rediff.com6 days ago

Indian benchmark equity indices, Sensex and Nifty, closed lower due to investor caution over rising bond yields, a weaker rupee, and fresh fuel price hikes, which have revived inflation concerns.

PM Narendra Modi inaugurates six indoor cricket academies across Northeast India

PM Narendra Modi inaugurates six indoor cricket academies across Northeast India

Rediff.com28 Apr 2026

Prime Minister Narendra Modi inaugurated six new indoor cricket academies across northeast India, marking a significant step in strengthening sports infrastructure in the region. The academies, equipped with state-of-the-art facilities, aim to provide year-round training and reduce the need for players to travel elsewhere for professional development.

DMK Faces Internal Strife After Election Defeat

DMK Faces Internal Strife After Election Defeat

Rediff.com6 May 2026

'How does the person responsible for the leader's defeat stand before the leader, showing his face, without even a shred of shame, fear, apprehension, or embarrassment?'

AIADMK legislators moved to Puducherry amid TVK push for majority

AIADMK legislators moved to Puducherry amid TVK push for majority

Rediff.com7 May 2026

AIADMK MLAs have been moved to Puducherry amid TVK's efforts to secure a majority in the Tamil Nadu Assembly, according to an AIADMK spokesperson.

'Only a matter of time': FBI chief Kash Patel next high-level Trump exit?

'Only a matter of time': FBI chief Kash Patel next high-level Trump exit?

Rediff.com26 Apr 2026

Amid mounting speculation over his position within the Trump administration, FBI director Kash Patel reportedly could be the next senior official to exit Trump's cabinet in recent times, according to a Politico report.

Delhi Judicial Services Officer Allegedly Commits Suicide

Delhi Judicial Services Officer Allegedly Commits Suicide

Rediff.com2 May 2026

A Delhi Judicial Services official, identified as Aman Kumar Sharma, has allegedly died by suicide in the Safdarjung area of Delhi, according to police reports.

NITI Aayog: India's Scientific Knowledge Systematically Destroyed

NITI Aayog: India's Scientific Knowledge Systematically Destroyed

Rediff.com11 May 2026

NITI Aayog member Gobardhan Das asserted that India possessed a rich scientific tradition that suffered setbacks during centuries of foreign domination, with its repository of knowledge systematically destroyed by invaders.

'In India Politics Has Taken Over Business'

'In India Politics Has Taken Over Business'

Rediff.com1 days ago

'When we start describing somebody as an enemy that is the start of politics and emotion after which no business can take place.' 'We need to get out of this, allow Indian businessmen to do business with China.'

Kerala Rights Body Orders Probe Into Boy's Death At Park

Kerala Rights Body Orders Probe Into Boy's Death At Park

Rediff.com24 Apr 2026

The Kerala State Human Rights Commission has ordered an inquiry into the death of a five-year-old boy who fell into a marshy area at a jungle park in Pazhanganad. The commission has directed the RDO to conduct a detailed investigation and submit a report within three weeks.

TMC Leader Accuses BJP Of Inciting Violence In West Bengal

TMC Leader Accuses BJP Of Inciting Violence In West Bengal

Rediff.com11 May 2026

Trinamool Congress leader Abhishek Banerjee has accused the BJP of inciting violence in West Bengal, alleging that BJP-backed miscreants set fire to shops in Purba Medinipur's Khejuri. The BJP has denied the allegations, claiming the TMC is trying to cause unrest.

TN governor says Vijay lacks majority; eyes on DMK allies' next move

TN governor says Vijay lacks majority; eyes on DMK allies' next move

Rediff.com8 May 2026

Tamil Nadu Governor Rajendra Vishwanath Arlekar informed TVK chief Vijay that his party lacks the necessary support to form the government. TVK is intensifying efforts to gain support from Left parties, VCK, and IUML. The Governor's decision has sparked protests and political debate in the state.

LDF To Seek Public Feedback After Kerala Election Loss

LDF To Seek Public Feedback After Kerala Election Loss

Rediff.com7 May 2026

The LDF convenor T P Ramakrishnan announced that the Left front would seek public input to address shortcomings after their defeat in the Kerala Assembly elections, where they won only 35 out of 140 seats.

Who Will Win Kerala's Game Of Thrones?

Who Will Win Kerala's Game Of Thrones?

Rediff.com11 May 2026

Already, within the week of the election results it became apparent that the Congress' DNA has not changed from its traditional approach to politics as but a game of thrones, observes Ambassador M K Bhadrakumar.

'Indians Are Not Buying Too Much Of Gold'

'Indians Are Not Buying Too Much Of Gold'

Rediff.com2 days ago

'Even last year, when India bought gold, the physical quantity was much less than the previous years.'

AAP Accuses Centre Of Misusing Agencies In Punjab

AAP Accuses Centre Of Misusing Agencies In Punjab

Rediff.com10 May 2026

The Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) held protests across Punjab against the Enforcement Directorate's (ED) action against state minister Sanjeev Arora, accusing the central government of misusing agencies against its leaders. The BJP criticised the AAP workers' behaviour during the protests.

Venugopal, Chennithala or Satheesan: Who'll win Kerala CM race?

Venugopal, Chennithala or Satheesan: Who'll win Kerala CM race?

Rediff.com6 May 2026

Intense lobbying is underway in Kerala as V D Satheesan, K C Venugopal, and Ramesh Chennithala vie for the chief minister's post, with their camps citing popularity, MLA support, and experience as key factors for the Congress high command's decision.

Odisha Orders Crime Branch Probe Into Mob Lynching Of Constable

Odisha Orders Crime Branch Probe Into Mob Lynching Of Constable

Rediff.com9 May 2026

Odisha Chief Minister Mohan Charan Majhi has ordered a Crime Branch investigation into the mob lynching of a GRP constable accused of attempted rape. The incident occurred on May 7, and the investigation aims to identify and prosecute those responsible. The victim's father alleges police involvement in the assault.

TVK seeks SC intervention to form govt in Tamil Nadu

TVK seeks SC intervention to form govt in Tamil Nadu

Rediff.com8 May 2026

Actor Vijay's TVK party, despite being the single largest party in Tamil Nadu, has approached the Supreme Court seeking a directive for the Governor to invite them to form the government.

Kerala CM Selection Delay Creates Political Uncertainty, Says UDF Partner

Kerala CM Selection Delay Creates Political Uncertainty, Says UDF Partner

Rediff.com13 May 2026

An RSP MP has expressed strong displeasure with the delay in the Congress party's selection of a Chief Minister for Kerala, calling the situation a 'political uncertainty' that is 'unfortunate'. The MP claims the delay is creating discontent among workers and the public.

CM Vijay resigns from Tiruchurapalli East seat, retains Perambur

CM Vijay resigns from Tiruchurapalli East seat, retains Perambur

Rediff.com10 May 2026

Before assuming office as the Chief Minister of Tamil Nadu, Vijay submitted his resignation letter from the post of member of the legislative assembly representing the Tiruchirappalli East constituency.

Iran files formal complaint with UN over ship seizures, accuses US of 'piracy'

Iran files formal complaint with UN over ship seizures, accuses US of 'piracy'

Rediff.com29 Apr 2026

Iran has lodged a formal complaint with the United Nations, accusing the US of engaging in 'piracy' following the seizure of Iranian vessels. The complaint was detailed in a letter sent by Iran's UN envoy to the UN Secretary-General and the Security Council.

Indian Sports Officials Warned Against Treating Events As Holidays

Indian Sports Officials Warned Against Treating Events As Holidays

Rediff.com8 May 2026

Indian sports administrators have been warned against treating multi-sport events as 'paid holidays'. The ministry has also reiterated the need for videography of selection trials for transparency.

Fifth Arrest In Odisha Lynching Case; Victims Want Release Of Accused

Fifth Arrest In Odisha Lynching Case; Victims Want Release Of Accused

Rediff.com8 May 2026

Police in Odisha have made a fifth arrest in connection with the lynching of a man accused of attempted sexual assault. The victims, however, are requesting the release of those arrested, claiming they saved their lives.

How Satheesan Emerged As Consensus Choice For Kerala CM

How Satheesan Emerged As Consensus Choice For Kerala CM

Rediff.com7 days ago

'He worked over time to become the natural claimant,' a senior UDF leader observed. 'Others had organisational stature, but Satheesan had momentum.' For the Congress, it may signal the beginning of a new leadership template -- one where performance, communication and grassroots credibility increasingly outweigh inherited power structures in deciding who leads the party into its next phase.

Trump lands in Beijing to rare VIP welcome amid trade and Iran talks

Trump lands in Beijing to rare VIP welcome amid trade and Iran talks

Rediff.com13 May 2026

US President Donald Trump received a red carpet welcome in Beijing for talks with Chinese President Xi Jinping on trade, the Iran war, and other key issues. The visit underscores the importance both nations place on their relationship amid ongoing tensions.

Haryana Orders Vigilance Probe Into Vehicle Registration Irregularities

Haryana Orders Vigilance Probe Into Vehicle Registration Irregularities

Rediff.com22 Apr 2026

Haryana Transport Minister Anil Vij has ordered a state-wide investigation into alleged irregularities in vehicle registrations across multiple Sub-Divisional offices and Regional Transport Offices. The probe, led by the State Vigilance and Anti-Corruption Bureau, follows reports of fraudulent registrations in Ambala. Vij has also addressed issues such as uncovered construction vehicles and violations of the Stage Carriage Scheme.

Vijay takes a selfie with Rahul Gandhi after swearing-in

Vijay takes a selfie with Rahul Gandhi after swearing-in

Rediff.com10 May 2026

Actor Vijay, president of Tamilaga Vettri Kazhagam (TVK), was sworn in as the Chief Minister of Tamil Nadu. The ceremony included a selfie with Rahul Gandhi and a 360-degree video of the cheering crowd. Vijay's party achieved a historic debut, ending the duopoly of DMK and AIADMK.

Kerala Offers Congress Golden Chance; Will It Deliver?

Kerala Offers Congress Golden Chance; Will It Deliver?

Rediff.com8 May 2026

Kerala's voters are sophisticated, educated, and unforgiving. They have once again made it clear that no government is entitled to remain in power. The Congress would do well to remember this, points out Ramesh Menon.